As the seasons change and the colder months approach, we oftentimes look forward to the warmth of a fireplace. Many retailers offer individual pieces of fireplace equipment or entire fireplace installation kits. Below are some terms with which one should familiarize themselves when purchasing fireplace equipment.

Hearth - A hearth is the floor of a fireplace. It is often made of brick, stone, or other fire proof material and extends a short distance into the room.

Mantel - A mantel is a wooden or stone frame which surrounds the opening of a fireplace in a more or less decorative fashion. A mantel may or may not have a decorative shelf above the fireplace.

Screen - A screen is a see-thru cover or shield. It can be made from metal or glass. Its primary purpose is to prevent sparks or embers emitted by the fire from leaving the fireplace. The screen also protects the occupants of the room from open flame.

Chimney - A chimney is usually a vertical structure by which smoke, flame, and gases are carried off. It is also the means by which a draft is created.

Fireplace Insert - Made from cast iron or steel, a fireplace insert is often paired with an electric blowing mechanism in order to more efficiently heat a room.

Log - A log is normally a length of wood from a felled tree. It can also come in the form of a compressed wood-type product. Once ignited, the flames and coals from the burning logs warm the room.

Gas Fireplace - A gas fireplace is fueled by propane or other natural gas. Fake logs are typically included to increase the aesthetic value of the fireplace. Some models do not require vents.

There's almost nothing nicer than sitting beside a warm hearth on a winter's day, stoking a few scraps of wood, in your very own fireplace.
For some, the dream of owning an indoor or outdoor fireplace is a distant fantasy. But it doesn't have to be! Fireplace and fireplace equipment retailers offer home owners everything they need to make this dream a reality.
Have you always dreamed of a homey hearth with a brick chimney and an oak mantel? Or a more industrial, contemporary fireplace with glass inserts? Or maybe a quirky stone version with an art-deco design and an over-sized vent? You can find these fireplaces, and many others, at your local supply store.
You can also find every fireplace accessory and all sorts of equipment available. In need of a new screen? A gas burning stove? Or a bundle of artificial logs? You'll find them all at your local fireplace retail store.
These stores sell equipment for fireplaces of all types, including electric and propane versions.
You'll also find equipment designed to appeal those in need of remodeling their fireplaces a bit. Cleaning materials are always available, and many retailers offer free fireplace inspections.
Not only that, but your supplier will undoubtedly offer to help you install anything you buy, including mantels, screens, and inserts. You may have to chop your own fire wood, but that's about it!
With a little patience, and a bit of work, designing and constructing your first fireplace should be a breeze - Before you know it, you'll be curled up beside your new fireplace, toasty warm and reading a good book!